Calvary Church leaders: Senior pastor on paid leave

CHARLOTTE — Calvary Church leaders announced Sunday that its senior pastor is on paid leave pending an investigation, according to congregation members who attended the service.

Congregation members say they were told that a third party is investigating Pastor John Munro after a "human resources complaint" was made against him for allegedly violating the church's handbook. The exact details of the complaint were not released.

Eyewitness News made attempts to contact several church elders and administrators Sunday but did not hear back. Voicemails left on Munro's phone were also not returned.

The church released the following statement to Channel 9 on Monday:

"Although we understand you have learned about an internal investigation our church is conducting, at this time we are keeping communications regarding the investigation to within the Calvary Church family to preserve the integrity of the investigation and to protect the privacy interests of all involved. However, our membership cherishes and appreciates the messages of prayer and support that we have received, and ask that those who see fit continue to pray for all involved."

Munro was thrust into the local and national spotlight toward the end of July when Nancy Writebol, a congregation member, was diagnosed with an infection from the deadly Ebola virus. Munro spoked to countless local and national media outlets about her condition.

Munro joined Calvary Church in 2006 after senior pastoral stints in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Nova Scotia, according to the Calvary Church web site.

"I'm shocked and I'm hoping that it will be resolved because he's an awesome pastor," said Elizabeth Carrasquillo, who began attending the church a few years ago.

WSOC